2002 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 2006 Toyota MR2
To start off, 2006 Toyota MR2 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Alfa Romeo 156. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 would be higher. At 1,792 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Toyota MR2 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 138 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 327 kg more than 2006 Toyota MR2.
Because 2006 Toyota MR2 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2006 Toyota MR2. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2006 Toyota MR2 (170 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 7 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156. (163 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2006 Toyota MR2 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 | 2006 Toyota MR2 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Toyota |
| Model | 156 | MR2 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1747 cc | 1792 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 163 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82.7 mm | 91.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 208 km/hour | 210 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.7 seconds | 8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1392 kg | 1065 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 3900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2460 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 48 L |
